Health Library

Mouthpieces for Sleep Apnea

For simple snoring or mild to moderate apnea, a special mouthpiece may help. A dental specialist works with your health care provider to build and fit a mouthpiece just for you. A follow-up sleep study checks how well the device is working for you. Mouthpieces are also called oral appliances.

Moving the Jaw Forward

Most mouthpieces move the jaw and tongue forward. That keeps the tongue from blocking the airway. Mouthpieces can work well, but they are not for everyone. Work with your health care provider to get a mouthpiece that fits just right for you. And avoid over-the-counter mouthpieces — they often do not work.

Tips

To have the most success with your mouthpiece, keep these tips in mind:

It will take some time to get used to wearing a mouthpiece. At first it may feel uncomfortable or make your mouth water. If these problems last, tell your health care provider.

Expect several rounds of adjustments to get the mouthpiece to fit and work just right for you.

Mouthpieces don’t cure the problems that cause snoring or sleep apnea. So you need to use your mouthpiece all night, every night.